E-Bike Program

E-Bike Program Graphic

The E-Bike program provides low-interest financing for Nelson homeowners who would like to purchase a commuter bike including electric bikes, road-ready mountain bike, do-it-yourself conversion kits, and accessories that are related to safety and commuting, not include clothing.  

The loan is applied monthly on the homeowner’s Nelson Hydro electric bill and repaid over the term of the loan. The maximum loan amount is $8,000 per household, which can support the purchase of more than one bike. Participants can choose an amortization period of two or five years, with an interest rate of 3.5% (subject to change each year). 

The program is available to City of Nelson residents who own and live in their own homes. Are you currently a renter? Learn about other e-bike accessibility initiatives below. 

How Do I Participate?

Step 1 - Submit application 

Step 2 - Receive loan pre-approval confirmation 

Step 3 - Purchase new bike and submit receipt(s) 

Step 4 - Receive reimbursement and repay the loan through your Nelson Hydro electric bill

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Questions? 

Contact us at ebike@nelson.ca 

Are you a Renter?

The E-Bike financing program is only available to homeowners because the City of Nelson needs to secure the loan by tying the loan to property taxes in the event of a default, and there is no system in place in the case of default for renters.

We are exploring other ways to make purchasing an E-Bike more accessible for everyone. From promoting employee E-Bike financing programs, advocating for provincial E-Bike incentives, and ensuring information is readily available, we're working hard to ensure our whole community is prepared for the future.

Shop Local

The City of Nelson encourages all E-Bike program participants to shop locally. Here is a list of local bike vendors:

  • The Sacred Ride - 213 Baker Street (Offering 15% off bike accessories)
  • Gerick Cycle & Ski - 702 Baker Street (Offering 15% off bike accessories)
  • Main Jet Motorsports - 708 HWY 3A

Other E-Bike Accessibility Initiatives

PST Exemption
As of April 21, 2021, the Provincial Sales Tax is no longer charged on most e-bikes purchases. 

Scrap-It Program
British Columbians who scrap a qualifying car or truck can receive $750 rebate when they buy a new E-Bike. Learn more.

Cargo E-Bike
Business owners in B.C. with a valid business license, non-profit organizations, and public sector organizations can get up to $1,700 when they buy a cargo e-bike. Learn more.

Staff Programs
Talk to your employer to see if they would consider implementing an E-Bike Financing Program at your workplace.

Provincial Income-Qualified Program
Find updates here for this program.


Safety & Motor Vehicle Act Requirements for E-Bikes

It is the responsibility of the Participant to educate themselves and abide by the provincial and municipal legal requirements of operating an e-Bike (motor-assisted cycles). This includes but is not limited to the following Motor Vehicle Act requirements for e-Bikes:

  1. No individual under the age of 16 will operate such a bike; 
  2. Bikes cannot travel faster than 32 km/h;
  3. A safety helmet must be worn.  

Additional information regarding bicycle safety and relevant rules and regulations is available here.

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E-Bike Info Sheet - for website